Mormon Temple in Westwood lets grass go brown due to drought

WESTWOOD, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The once lush grass in front of the Mormon Temple in Westwood is now brown as California continues to reduce water consumption in the midst of the drought.

"I don't think I've ever seen it quite this brown. That's why I had to come look at it myself," said Ginny Supple of Westwood.

The temple is a Los Angeles landmark, attracting visitors from all over the world. Some hope this sends a message to those who live here.

"I'm proud. I'm glad because I think we need to start saving more and more water, and I can't believe they did this," Supple said.

Spokesperson Doug Andersen said they stopped watering in April.

"We are pleased to join others across Los Angeles and California in reducing water consumption during this historic drought," Andersen said in a statement. "We have also reduced water usage for the past three years with a restricted 'dawn to dusk' watering schedule as established by the city."

"It's respectable. Everyone needs to do their part and if it comes down to not watering your grass, you got to do it," said Matt Krautstrunk of Santa Monica.

Some residents did not like the brown lawn at the Mormon Temple, saying it takes away from the beauty of the area.

"It's ridiculous. We need that. It's an eye sore now," said Curtis Williams of Westwood.

This comes as the state water board passed new mandatory water restrictions. Heavy users could be fined.